Blake Garrett, the former child actor who won hearts as Plug in the 2006 family film How to Eat Fried Worms, has passed away at the age of 33. His death has sparked an outpouring of emotion from fans who grew up watching the movie and remembered him as part of a generation of early-2000s child stars. While Hollywood was only one chapter of his life, Garrett’s journey—from stage performances to stepping away from fame—offers a story that goes far beyond a single role. Here’s a complete look at who Blake Garrett was, what made him memorable, and how he will be remembered.
Who Was Blake Garrett?
Blake Garrett was an American actor who found early success in entertainment as a child. To many millennials and Gen Z viewers, he will always be “Plug,” one of the unforgettable schoolyard characters in How to Eat Fried Worms.
But to his family and close friends, Garrett was more than a former child actor. He was someone who experienced fame early, navigated life outside the spotlight, and ultimately chose a quieter path away from Hollywood.
Born in the early 1990s, Garrett showed an interest in performing from a young age. Like many child actors of his era, he balanced auditions, rehearsals, and school while growing up in the public eye—something that would later influence his decision to step back from acting.
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Blake Garrett’s Breakthrough Role in How to Eat Fried Worms
Released in 2006, How to Eat Fried Worms was based on the popular children’s book by Thomas Rockwell. The movie followed a group of boys navigating friendship, dares, and growing up—anchored by a memorable ensemble cast.
Blake Garrett played Plug, a member of the group whose personality stood out among the tight-knit cast. The film became a staple for family movie nights and school holiday viewing, especially for kids growing up in the mid-2000s.
While the movie wasn’t a blockbuster in the traditional sense, it earned a loyal following over the years. For many fans, Garrett’s performance remains closely tied to childhood memories, which explains why news of his death has hit particularly hard.
Early Career and Life in Entertainment
Before his film role, Blake Garrett was already active in live performance. He appeared in stage productions and was involved in touring shows during his early years, experiences that helped sharpen his confidence as a performer.
Like many child actors, his career path wasn’t linear. Opportunities came and went, and as he got older, Garrett appeared less frequently on screen. Rather than chasing fame indefinitely, he gradually stepped away from acting—a move that would later define the second half of his life.
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Why Blake Garrett Stepped Away From Hollywood
Not every child actor dreams of becoming a lifelong celebrity, and Blake Garrett was no exception. After experiencing early success, he chose a more private life away from cameras, red carpets, and auditions.
Stepping back from Hollywood allowed Garrett to focus on personal growth and stability. According to those close to him, he valued normalcy and had been enjoying a quieter lifestyle in recent years.
This decision resonates with many former child stars who later speak about the pressure of growing up in the entertainment industry. Garrett’s choice reflects a broader conversation about fame, mental health, and redefining success beyond public recognition.
Blake Garrett’s Death: What We Know So Far
Blake Garrett passed away in February 2026 at the age of 33. The news was confirmed by his family, leaving fans shocked and saddened.
At the time of reporting, the official cause of death has not been publicly finalized. Family members shared that he had recently experienced health issues and had sought medical attention shortly before his passing. Authorities indicated that further medical evaluation would determine the exact circumstances.
Out of respect for his loved ones, many fans and media outlets have emphasized compassion over speculation—something increasingly important in the age of viral headlines.
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Public Reaction and Tributes From Fans
As news of Garrett’s death spread, social media quickly filled with tributes. Fans shared clips from How to Eat Fried Worms, childhood memories, and messages of gratitude for the joy his performance brought them years ago.
What stands out most is how deeply people connected with a movie that came out nearly two decades ago. Garrett’s role may have been one part of an ensemble, but it clearly left a lasting impression.
Former child stars often fade quietly from public attention, but moments like this show how powerful early work can be—and how long it can live on in people’s hearts.
The Lasting Impact of How to Eat Fried Worms
Although Blake Garrett didn’t continue acting into adulthood, How to Eat Fried Worms remains a defining part of his legacy. The film is still streamed, referenced, and revisited by fans who grew up with it.
The movie’s themes—peer pressure, courage, friendship, and resilience—have aged surprisingly well. Garrett’s performance contributed to that authenticity, helping the characters feel real rather than cartoonish.
In many ways, the film’s endurance mirrors Garrett’s quiet impact: not loud, not constant, but deeply felt.
Child Stardom and the Reality Behind the Scenes
Garrett’s story also highlights a larger truth about child actors. Early fame doesn’t guarantee lifelong success – or lifelong happiness. Many performers eventually choose privacy, stability, and personal fulfillment over continued visibility.
Blake Garrett’s life after Hollywood serves as a reminder that stepping away is not failure. It’s simply another path—one that deserves as much respect as staying in the spotlight.
How Blake Garrett Will Be Remembered
Blake Garrett will be remembered for a role that defined a generation’s childhood viewing experience. But he’ll also be remembered for choosing his own version of a meaningful life.
To fans, he’ll always be Plug. To his family and friends, he was someone who mattered far beyond the screen.
His passing at a young age is undeniably tragic, but his legacy—rooted in joy, nostalgia, and authenticity—continues.
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FAQs
How old was Blake Garrett when he died?
Blake Garrett was 33 years old at the time of his death.
What was Blake Garrett famous for?
He was best known for playing Plug in the 2006 family film How to Eat Fried Worms.
What is Blake Garrett’s cause of death?
As of now, the official cause of death has not been publicly confirmed. Family members have said further medical information is pending.
Did Blake Garrett continue acting as an adult?
No, he stepped away from Hollywood after his early acting career and lived a more private life.
Why is How to Eat Fried Worms still popular today?
The film remains popular due to its relatable themes, nostalgic value, and strong ensemble cast that resonated with young audiences.
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I’m Atul Kumar, founder of Cine Storytellers and an entertainment creator with 5+ years of experience. I cover films, celebrities, music, and OTT content with a focus on accurate, ethical, and engaging storytelling. My goal is to bring readers trustworthy entertainment news that informs, inspires, and goes beyond gossip.